Heat warnings issued for Toronto and most of southern Ontario
Posted August 4, 2018 4:02 pm.
Last Updated August 5, 2018 1:02 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Environment Canada has issued heat warnings for much of southern Ontario, including Toronto and the GTA.
The weather agency says a two day heat event is scheduled to begin on Sunday and parts of the region could feel like 40 degrees with the humidex.
“A hot and humid airmass will move into Southern Ontario Sunday and remain in place through Monday. Daytime maximum values of 31 degrees or higher are expected on both Sunday and Monday with Humidex values near 40. Overnight minimum temperatures will only fall to near 20 degrees, providing little relief from the heat.”
In addition, Dr. Eileen de Villa, Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health, also issued a heat warning for Toronto on Sunday. It will be in effect until further notice.
Torontonians are encouraged to check in on friends, family and neighbours, especially isolated seniors who may be more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Others at risk include infants and young children, those with chronic illnesses or limited mobility and people with with certain mental health illnesses.
Along with air-conditioned shopping malls, community swimming pools and beaches, Toronto has 180 air-conditioned community centres and local libraries across the the city where residents can cool off.
For those experiencing homelessness, TTC tokens are available at drop-in centres throughout the city that can be used to get to cool places.
GO Transit is warning of delays of about 10 minutes due to the soaring temperatures.
Metrolinx spokesperson Anne-Marie Aikins says the slow order is a precautionary measure against “sun kinks” – or bends in the steel tracks – which can happen when the temperatures climb above 30, especially for an extended period of time like this weekend.
Environment Canada says a cold front is expected to move through the area on Tuesday, bringing relief from the hot and humid temperatures.
